Mumbai: With the Mumbai Monorail set to reopen for passengers after completion of the final inspection, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is examining whether gaps in the elevated guideway can be covered to prevent loose material from falling on traffic below.The Monorail has received the necessary approvals for commencing operations, while finishing work at stations is currently under way. Officials said the system will be opened to the public after the final inspection is completed.A senior MMRDA official said, “The proposed guideway protection is being examined as an additional safety measure, particularly at locations where the elevated structure passes over busy roads. The MMRDA is assessing whether a mesh, tray or other suitable covering can be installed to contain any loose components or debris and prevent them from reaching the road below.”Officials said any such system would have to be designed without affecting the structural integrity or operation of the guideway. The additional weight, wind loads, drainage, vibration and access required for inspection and maintenance of cables and other equipment would have to be considered.The MMRDA is also likely to assess whether the protection needs to be installed across the entire corridor or only at vulnerable stretches where traffic and pedestrians pass directly underneath.A pilot installation could be considered before the system is extended to other sections, depending on the outcome of the technical assessment.
